The pet care industry is booming — Americans spent approximately $152 billion on their pets in 2024, with around 68 million U.S. households owning dogs. As dog ownership and spending continue to rise, the demand for pet care services like walking and sitting is surging. This growing trend is fueling a significant increase in dog walker jobs across the country, offering flexible work opportunities for animal lovers and part-time job seekers alike.
The U.S. dog-walking industry generated approximately $1.3 billion in 2023 and continues to grow steadily at about 1.2% annually. For dog lovers, this means there’s never been a better time to explore dog walker jobs. In this guide, we’ll break down the Top 10 Dog Walker Jobs That Pay Well in 2025 — including high-paying, flexible roles that are perfect for beginners and how you can land one today.
Many dog walker jobs offer flexible schedules and don’t require any prior experience. App-based platforms like Wag! and Rover make it easy to get started — allowing you to choose your own hours, set your rates, and accept bookings on your terms. With these dog walker jobs, you can be your own boss, create your own schedule, and grow your dog walking business exactly how you want.
Even as a complete newcomer, you can easily get started with dog walker jobs by signing up on popular apps, passing a basic background check (most require you to be 18+), and begin earning. In the sections below, we’ll explore the top-paying dog walker jobs in 2025 — from app-based gigs to specialized side hustles — and show students and beginners exactly how to dive into this growing industry.
Image: An experienced professional enjoying one of the many flexible dog walker jobs — leading a group of happy dogs on a scenic nature trail.
High-Paying Dog Walker Jobs with Flexible Schedules (No Experience Needed)
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App-Based Dog Walker (Rover, Wag!, etc.)
Platforms like Rover and Wag! make it easy to find dog walker jobs by connecting pet lovers with dog owners in need of care. As independent contractors, caregivers in these dog walker jobs enjoy the freedom to be their own boss — setting their own availability and rates. No prior dog-care experience is required to get started; in fact, many walkers begin with nothing more than a genuine love for animals. Compensation is typically per job: on Rover, walkers often charge between $15–$25 for a 30-minute walk (varies by city), while Wag! reports average earnings of $25–$37 for a 60-minute session.
- One of the biggest perks of dog walker jobs is that you keep 100% of your tips. In high-demand areas, dog walkers on Rover can earn around $205 per day. Beyond regular walks, many dog walker jobs also include pet sitting and overnight boarding, which often pay 2 to 3 times more than standard walk rates. For example, overnight pet sitting on Wag! averages between $39–$59 per night. A major advantage of these dog walker jobs is their total flexibility — work early mornings, evenings, weekends, or whenever fits your lifestyle and schedule.
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Local Dog-Walking Agency or Concierge Service
Small pet-care companies frequently hire dog walker jobs to serve local neighborhoods. These agencies often provide training or pair new dog walkers with experienced staff, so no prior experience is needed beyond a love for dogs. Compensation for these dog walker jobs may come as an hourly wage or per walk, typically ranging from $15 to $25 per hour plus tips. Walkers working in affluent areas or with specialized pets, such as puppies, often have the opportunity to earn higher pay.
- Dog walker jobs involving large breeds or special needs pets can command higher rates. Some agencies offering dog walker jobs provide daily or weekly pay, often with bonuses. These positions usually come with regular clients and a steady route, plus opportunities to earn more by offering extra services like pet sitting, making these dog walker jobs especially lucrative.
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Independent Freelance Dog Walker/Pet Sitter
If you prefer to work independently, you can start your own dog walker jobs business. This can begin as a side hustle on weekends or after school and grow over time. You can increase your earnings by adding services like at-home pet sitting or doggy daycare, where clients drop their pets off at your home. As the owner of your dog walker jobs business, you set your own rates and services. Building a client base through neighborhood flyers, social media, or a simple website can help your dog walker jobs venture thrive.
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Even a blank social profile showcasing your dog photos and references can help launch your dog walker jobs business. While gaining experience, volunteering at a shelter is a great way to sharpen your skills — many vetting agencies consider volunteer dog walking as valid experience. Running your own dog walker jobs gig requires more effort and insurance, but it also allows your earnings to grow alongside demand.
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Dog Walk/Pet Run Specialist (Exercise-focused)
Some pet owners need more than just a stroll — they want jogging or special activity walks. If you’re fit and enjoy vigorous exercise, you can offer specialized dog walker jobs like “dog runs” or adventure walks, including hiking, city runs with dogs,
- or even bikejoring. These dog walker jobs often pay a premium. For example, experienced dog walkers can charge $20–$30 for a half-hour speed walk. Bike-assisted or group runs with multiple dogs can also command higher rates. This niche within dog walker jobs is a great way to boost your hourly earnings.
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Dog Daycare or Park Run Attendant
Doggy daycares and group dog-park services often hire for dog walker jobs to supervise playtime and take dogs on multiple short walks or potty breaks. These dog walker jobs typically pay hourly rates ranging from $10 to $15 or more, depending on the location, plus tips. Working 8+ hours a day caring for many dogs can earn a solid daily wage. Formal experience isn’t usually required for these dog walker jobs — just energy and patience, as most training happens on the job. Additionally, if the facility offers walk-out sessions (taking dogs off-site), those dog walker jobs often come with extra pay per trip.
Part-Time Dog Walker Jobs for Students and Pet Lovers Near You
For many students and pet lovers, dog walker jobs are an ideal part-time gig. The flexible schedule allows you to fit walks between classes or on weekends. Indeed reviews back this up — one Chicago Rover walker calls dog walker jobs “great for busy people who want to make extra money or a college student with limited time.” To find local part-time dog walker jobs opportunities:
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Use Gig Platforms:
Sign up for dog walker jobs on apps like Rover, Wag!, or Fetch! Pet Care. These platforms list nearby gigs as pet owners post walk requests. You can choose the dog walker jobs that best fit your schedule. Keep your profile and availability updated to attract more local pet owners and maximize your dog walker jobs opportunities.
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Check Job Boards and Classifieds:
Look for dog walker jobs on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace/Groups, or local community boards like those in libraries, cafes, and campus centers. Many pet owners post ads when they need a reliable dog walker, making these great places to find dog walker jobs nearby.
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Network Locally:
Tell friends, neighbors, and campus peers that you’re available for dog walker jobs. Post flyers or ads at veterinary clinics, pet stores, and university bulletin boards. Personal referrals are one of the fastest ways to build a steady client base for your dog walker jobs.
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Join Local Pet Services:
Some schools or campus groups partner with pet owners to offer dog walker jobs and other pet care services. Alternatively, volunteering at a nearby animal shelter can provide valuable experience and may lead to paid dog walker jobs down the line.
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Browse Job Sites:
Major job sites like Indeed and LinkedIn frequently list dog walker jobs and pet-sitting opportunities. You can search for “dog walker jobs” or “pet sitter jobs” in your zip code to find local openings. Additionally, check specialty websites like PackHire’s pet job board for more dog walker jobs.
By focusing on dog walker jobs “near me,” you can minimize your commute and provide faster, more convenient service—a big selling point for dog owners. Flexible, part-time dog walker jobs are perfect for students looking to fit work around their schedules while earning a solid side income.
Remote and Local Dog Walker Jobs in the Pet Care Industry
Dog walking itself is inherently local – someone has to physically take the dog out. But the pet care industry also offers related roles that can be done remotely or from home:
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Local Roles:
These include the typical dog walker jobs (apps, agencies, daycares) we’ve discussed. They involve going to clients’ homes or parks and walking the dogs.
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Remote/Virtual Roles:
While you can’t walk a dog from home, some pet-care jobs are entirely remote. Examples include virtual dog training or coaching (teaching owners obedience via video calls), pet product consultant or customer service for pet companies, and content creation (pet blogging, social media management for dog brands). For instance, an experienced dog walker could become an online dog trainer or sell dog-walking gear through e-commerce – both can be done from home. (One top pet blogger even turned his passion into a full-time online business.) These “digital pet jobs” typically pay per project or freelance rate, and can complement on-site dog walking gigs.
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Hybrid Roles:
Some companies hire remote employees to coordinate local dog walkers. For example, pet care apps hire customer support, scheduling coordinators, or marketing staff who work remotely but support local walkers. These jobs pay a regular salary (often $15–$20/hr or more).
In short, local dog walking jobs pay you to walk dogs in your neighborhood, while remote pet industry jobs use your dog know-how in a work-from-home capacity (coaching owners, selling pet services, etc.). Depending on your skills, you might even combine both – e.g. walk dogs by day and sell online dog training by night.
Dog Walker Jobs That Offer Daily Pay and Pet Sitting Opportunities
Some dog-walking gigs pay out daily or weekly, and many allow you to offer pet-sitting (overnight stays) for extra income. Here’s how to maximize earnings:
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Daily Pay Options:
Platforms vary. Wag! pays out weekly (Tuesday–Monday pay cycle, deposited on Friday), but offers an Instant Pay feature for a small fee (e.g. $1.99) so you can withdraw each day. Rover pays twice a week (two days after a completed job). Independent gigs or agency work often allow you to collect payment on the same day of service. In high-demand areas, experienced walkers can make ~$200–$250 per day on average, especially if juggling multiple short walks (each 30-min walk can pay $10–$20).
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Pet Sitting and Boarding:
Offering overnight boarding or house-sitting can significantly boost pay. Many owners need someone to stay overnight with their pet when they travel. According to industry data, overnight pet sitters on Wag! earn $39–$59 per night for one dog. Rover’s overnight stays are similarly lucrative. Because boarding usually pays 2–3× a walk rate, combining walking and sitting jobs can double your income. For example, a single night of pet sitting might pay as much as 4–5 regular walks.
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Multi-Dog or Group Walks:
Walking two or more dogs for one client typically pays extra (some services charge per dog or per additional pet). Group walks or dog park visits (often offered at doggy daycares) can generate higher total pay per hour than solo walks.
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Pet Taxi or Errand Services:
Some pet-care jobs include driving pets to vet or bath appointments. If you have a vehicle, offering pet taxi services can yield daily cash, either as an add-on or a standalone service.
By mixing services, a dog walker can create a daily income stream. For instance, doing three 30-min walks plus one overnight pet sit in a day could easily net $100–$150 or more. Websites like Rover and Wag make it easy to stack jobs; and new players in 2025 even let you offer “instawalks” on demand. This means you can potentially get paid every day and even same-day if clients tip or pay instantly.
How to Get Dog Walker Jobs Without Experience: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
Getting started is easier than you might think. As one finance site notes, even those without formal credentials “can easily make money as a dog walker or sitter”. Follow these steps to land your first gig:
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1. Assess Your Readiness:
Ensure you’re fit enough to handle dogs in all conditions. Dogs need walks rain or shine. Be prepared for any size or temperament – patience and a gentle, assertive manner help.
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2. Choose Your Path:
Decide whether to join a platform, work for an agency, or go independent. App Path: Sign up on apps like Rover or Wag. These have a simple online application (you’ll need to be 18+, provide basic info, and pass a background check). Once approved, you can immediately start booking walks. Agency Path: Contact local pet-sitting companies or dog-walking services; many hire beginners and provide some training. Independent Path: Draft a basic business plan for your own service. This requires more effort (marketing, scheduling), but gives complete control.
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3. Get the Essentials:
Invest in key supplies. Carry sturdy leashes and harnesses, and consider a multi-dog leash if you’ll walk more than one dog at once. Always bring plenty of poop bags (fewer accidents on walks!). Pack treats to reward good behavior, and carry a collapsible water bowl and bottle for hydration on long walks. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing (reflective gear for dark evenings can enhance safety). If possible, have reliable transportation (bike or car) to reach clients.
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4. Build Your Profile and Network:
Create a simple online presence. If you joined an app, fill out your profile with a friendly photo, any relevant experience (e.g. pet volunteering), and your rates. If you’re independent, make a basic website or social media page describing your services. Ask friends or family to write a quick endorsement of your pet-handling skills. On apps, collect positive reviews from your first clients to build trust. Offline, use word-of-mouth: hand out business cards or flyers, and list your service on local pet groups. One Thimble guide suggests that word-of-mouth becomes your best advertising in dog walking – so let people know you’re available!
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5. Protect Yourself:
Even as a beginner, cover your legal bases. Have clients sign a simple service contract that outlines your rates, payment terms, cancellation policy, and emergency protocol. Keep a record of any pet medical info or special needs. Obtain liability insurance – either through your platform (if offered) or third-party pet-care insurance. This safeguards you in case a dog has an accident or injury on your watch. It might sound formal, but it shows professionalism and gives pet owners confidence.
By following these steps, you’ll be ready to land your first dog-walking gigs. Remember, no formal experience is needed – many start with just a love of dogs. Even volunteering once at a shelter or walking a friend’s dog can be listed as “experience.” With persistence and good service, you’ll quickly build a loyal clientele.
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FAQs
Q: How much do dog walkers make per hour or per day?
A: Earnings vary by region and experience. On average in the U.S., dog walkers make about $13.50 per hour (roughly $43,000 per year). However, top walkers often charge $20+ per hour, especially with tips or multi-dog walks. In busy cities, Rover data shows walkers averaging $205 per day. Longer services pay more: a 1-hour walk can run $25–$37, and overnight boarding commands $39–$59 or more.
Q: What are some high-paying dog-walking jobs?
A: App-based roles (Rover, Wag!) allow you to set your rates and earn tips. Specialized gigs – like group “dog runs,” hiking adventures, or pet taxi services – can pay above-average. Offering pet sitting/boarding (overnight stays) also pays very well, often more than double walk rates. Working in affluent neighborhoods or for busy executives often yields higher pay. Combining services (walks + in-home sitting) maximizes income.
Q: Do I need experience or any qualifications to walk dogs?
A: Generally, no previous experience is required. Most positions require you to be over 18 and pass a background check. Dog-walking platforms and agencies usually provide basic training or guidelines. Demonstrate reliability and a genuine love for dogs – these are your main “qualifications.” (Optional courses or certifications in pet first aid can boost your credibility but aren’t mandatory.) As NerdWallet notes, pet-lovers with any animal-care background “can easily make money” as dog walkers.
Q: How do I find dog walking jobs near me?
A: Use a mix of online and local searches. Sign up on pet-care sites (Rover.com, Wag!, Fetch!, etc.) and specify your location. Set your area and availability so local owners see your profile. Check job websites like Indeed or LinkedIn by searching “dog walker” in your city. Look at community bulletin boards (grocery stores, libraries, vet clinics) or campus job boards. You can also advertise on social media or use word-of-mouth – telling friends and neighbors is effective. As one pet-industry expert suggests, sites like PackHire or local pet business groups can connect you with pet owner clients.
Q: Are dog-walking jobs a good fit for students or those looking for part-time work?
A: Absolutely. Many dog walkers use the job as a flexible side gig. You can choose early morning or evening slots around your classes or other work. According to reviews, platforms like Rover are “great for busy people” and college students with limited free time. The income (often $15–$25 per half-hour walk) can easily help cover expenses. Just be sure to manage your time – dogs need consistent care – and use tools (calendars, apps) to schedule multiple walks in a day.
Q: What supplies or skills do I need to start?
A: Basic supplies are needed (leashes, waste bags, treats, water dish, sturdy shoes). A smartphone is essential for booking and directions. You don’t need formal skills, but being confident with dogs of all sizes helps. Good communication is important – update pet owners after walks. Some apps require passing a pet-care quiz to prove you know basic safety. CPR/First Aid training for pets is recommended (it reassures clients). Above all, patience, reliability, and a friendly attitude go a long way.
Conclusion
Dog walking is more than a pet-care chore in 2025 – it’s a growing gig economy career that can pay surprisingly well. From app platforms and agencies to your own freelance service, the Top 10 Dog Walker Jobs That Pay Well in 2025 offer flexible schedules, the joy of working with animals, and strong earning potential. The industry’s expansion (with pet services now a multibillion-dollar market) means demand is high, and pet owners are willing to pay for quality care. By following the steps above – creating a profile, marketing your services, and delivering great care – beginners can quickly build a profitable dog-walking career.
Ready to turn your love of dogs into income? Lace up your shoes, grab those leashes, and get walking – your perfect dog-walking job might be just around the corner. Share this guide with fellow pet-lovers, comment on your own experiences below, and connect on social media for more dog-care tips. The dogs (and your wallet) will thank you!